Edible microcrystalline cellulose and carrageenan coating composition

Abstract

The present invention relates to novel, edible, hardenable, prompt release coatings for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and veterinary solid dosage forms, confectionery, seeds, animal feed, fertilizers, pesticide tablets, and foods, etc., comprising microcrystalline cellulose and a film forming amount of carrageenan, wherein such coatings do not contain a plasticizer, a strengthening polymer or a surfactant.

1 . An edible, hardenable, prompt release coating composition comprising microcrystalline cellulose and a film forming amount of carrageenan, wherein said coating composition does not contain a plasticizer, strengthening polymer or surfactant.  
     
     
         2 . A dosage form coated with the coating of  claim 1 .  
     
     
         3 . The coating of  claim 1 , wherein said microcrystalline cellulose and carrageenan are present in a ratio of 90:10 to 65:35 wt %, respectively.  
     
     
         4 . The coating of  claim 1  further containing at least one of a filler, coloring agent, anti-tack agent or preservative.  
     
     
         5 . A method of coating a pharmaceutical, nutraceutical or veterinary solid dosage form comprising the steps of hydrating the composition of  claim 1  followed by spray coating said hydrated coating composition onto said solid dosage form.  
     
     
         6 . The coating of  claim 1 , wherein said microcrystalline cellulose and carrageenan are present in an amount of 75:25 wt %, respectively.